Things to Consider Before Becoming a Foster Parent

Have you been thinking about becoming a foster parent in Georgia? Whether it’s a new thought you’ve had or one that you have been contemplating for a while now, we appreciate your willingness to consider it and encourage you to begin your foster parenting journey.

Fostering is a deeply rewarding, caring act of love that allows you to open your home to a child in need. Just like any form of parenting, foster care can expose you to some difficult circumstances and trying moments. But, again, just like any form of parenting, it can also expose you to beautiful moments, meaningful connections, and a fuller heart and home.

As you continue to consider fostering in Georgia, be sure to keep the following in mind:

Fostering Is All About Reunification With Birth Parents

First and foremost, foster care is intended to be a temporary solution for a child in need. The desired result for foster care is reunification between the birth parent(s) and the child. Georgia aims to return foster children to their homes so long as the issues that caused the child to be removed are addressed, resolved, and not likely to occur again.

The average stay for a child in foster care is roughly 22 months, just shy of two full years. While in your care, it is important for your child to have frequent visits with their parent(s) to help aid in the reunification process. As a foster parent, it’s crucial for you to ensure your foster child attends these visits whenever they are scheduled and to participate in partnership parenting with the birth parents while your foster child is in your care. Doing so promotes the possibility of reunification, which is the ultimate goal.

For some families, the circumstances at home or with the birth parent(s) are such that reunification is not a reasonable option. Such circumstances can include:

The birth parent(s) failed to do what was required of them to get their child back.
The child has already been removed from the home at least two times before the most recent removal.
The birth parent(s) gave up their parental rights or had their rights terminated involuntarily.
The birth parent(s) subjected the child to extreme circumstances like physical abuse, sexual abuse, torture, or abandonment.
The birth parent(s) have been convicted of a felony related to harming the child or another child.

When reunification is not possible, doors can open to the possibility of fostering to adopt if that is something you have also considered. Being willing to possibly adopt is by no means required of you, either. Whether you are open to the idea of adoption or only want to provide a temporary home to a child who needs it, Georgia’s foster care system allows you to pursue what is right for you.

There Is Support and Resources for Foster Parents in Georgia

Welcoming a child into the home is not something anyone should do without the proper preparation, support, and resources. To become a foster parent in Georgia, you must meet a number of requirements, which include receiving IMPACT training and agency training to prepare you for fostering.

But in addition to required training, there are classes you can take, as well as agency support you’ll receive when you foster through a group like Generational Child Care. Your agency will be there to answer any questions you have, offer advice and guidance, and be a general supportive resource at all times. Attending extra classes not only exposes you to more beneficial information and training, but it also helps introduce you to other foster parents and opens the door to developing a support system you can lean on whenever you need it with people who are in a similar boat as you. There are also supportive online groups that you can rely on when you need advice or a listening ear.

When you become a foster parent, you aren’t left on your own to figure it out; support is available.

Fostering Means Experiencing the Good Times Along With the Bad

Just like regular parenting, there are times when you and your foster child will get along well and have wonderful moments together. And there will be times when attitudes, circumstances, or emotions won’t be so positive. It all comes with the territory when you decide to foster.

Fostering is unique in that you are welcoming a child who has undergone some level of trauma into your home. After all, you don’t get pulled away from your home for no reason. Your child could struggle to process their emotions or their circumstances in healthy ways at first or even several months into their stay with you. That’s totally normal, although it can be challenging for everyone involved to navigate.

Your training will provide methods for how to handle tough situations with your foster child, but training can only prepare you so much for the real deal. But remember, you will have your agency support to rely on, as well as any community support you build with other foster or adoptive parents. It can also be wise to consider therapy to help you maintain good mental health as you provide much-needed care to a child in need of support and love.

Our team would love to speak with you about your thoughts, concerns, and questions about becoming a Georgia foster parent. We want to be your resource for all things foster care and will provide the information you want or need to get started on your path toward fostering. If you’re ready to find out more, give us a call today at 478-477-1289.

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